It’s hard to fathom the Celtics acquiring James Harden before Thursday’s NBA trade deadline for a variety of reasons. But that doesn’t mean they can’t try.
On Wednesday, Greg Hill implored Brad Stevens to go all-in for the 10-time All-Star, who may be disgruntled in Brooklyn.
“If I were Brad Stevens, I would throw everything I possibly could at that deal to get him,” Hill said.
Though Harden sulked his way out of Houston just 15 months ago, there are signs he may want to move on from the Nets. Kendrick Perkins recently reported Harden’s people say he wants to play with Joel Embiid next season in Philadelphia.
Naturally, that’s sparked speculation about a swap involving Harden and another mercurial star player, Ben Simmons. The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported Sunday that the Sixers and Nets “will engage in dialogue on a deal around Simmons for Harden.”
For what it’s worth, Steve Nash insists Harden is committed to Brooklyn. He will be a free agent this summer.
Harden missed Tuesday’s game against the Celtics. Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, who can’t play home games due to New York City’s indoor vaccination mandate, were out as well. The Nets have dropped nine straight games.
Though Harden, 32, remains an elite scorer, his play has declined over the last two years. He’s no longer playing at an MVP level.
Still, Hill would be willing to take on the risk. It’s worth mentioning that Boston reportedly inquired about Harden before the Rockets shipped him to the Nets.
“Sitting here hoping the Celtics do something legit by tomorrow is really frustrating,” Hill said. “You’re sitting there with those two guys, who for whatever reason just don’t click, or can’t get the job done, or whatever it is. You gotta make a big move.”
Listen to the full take below:
